The sweat is rolling from the faces of amateur archaeologists this week as participants of all ages gather to sift and screen shovels of soil and learn a little more about the early history of Sonoma. The Big Dig brings together both the amateur and the professional archaeologist to commemorate the 175th anniversary of the founding of Sonoma. The event – which kicked off bright and early Monday morning and continues through Friday – filled the air with excitement as participants worked to find artifacts dating back to Mexican-era Sonoma.
Robert and Leslie Demler, owners of the adobe at 143 West Spain, have opened up the empty back lot at the rear of their historic home for the community to come “lay out units” and hone their archaeological skills. The small adobe was built by Salvador Vallejo around 1842. Salvador also built the large adobe at the corner of West Spain and First Street West, at the current location of the El Dorado Hotel and the Sunflower Caffé. Early morning participants enjoyed the complimentary hot teas and coffees provided by the Sunflower and enjoyed a refreshing iced tea in the afternoon as soaring temperatures began to climb.
The Monday morning session began with a small ceremony as property owner Robert Demler greeted the enthusiastic crowd and encouraged them to find something special. He was followed by Mayor Barbose, who spoke of Sonoma’s rich and colorful history. Barbose then took the first shovel and plunged it deep into the ground, throwing the soil into a ¼-inch mesh screen. As he sifted, something caught his eye. He bent over slowly, and picked something gingerly from the screen and lifted it into the air. Indeed, the first artifact of the event – a nail – had been identified and the Big Dig was on.
Each day, archaeologists from the greater Bay Area are visiting the site to help community participants and share their personal stories of discovery through the years. Monday morning, Mike Newland from the Anthropological Studies Center shared his insight with the crowd. His ten-minute talk focused on why archaeology is important. Newland continued to share his expertise working with the participants throughout the morning.
Tuesday’s special guest was Senior State archaeologist Breck Parkman. Parkman discussed his work over the years, specifically excavating sites associated with Mariano Vallejo. The amateur archaeologists worked their “units” while Breck and a host of young archaeologists guided them through the process. Nick Tipon with the Federated Indians of the Graton Rancheria, is also on-site each day to lend a hand, share Miwok/Southern Pomo philosophy, and provide input regarding Native Americans artifacts that may be discovered during excavation.
The excavation has thus far produced hundreds of artifacts dating from the mid-nineteenth century to more recent garbage. Much of the material found has included small fragments of ceramic and glass, square nails, buttons, and beads. There is also a collection of yet-to-be determined items. Tuesday’s participants uncovered the first archaeological feature. This feature appears to be a cluster of artifacts dating to Sonoma’s early years. The feature may grow in size as the week goes on, but as of Wednesday morning included a pocket of animal bone, cut stone, ceramics, and metal.
The public is encouraged to come out and visit the site. The Big Dig runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Friday, July 9. It is a great opportunity to learn a little more about Sonoma’s amazing history.
George McKale is a professional archaeologist, the City of Sonoma’s historian and a columnist for The Sun. He organized the Big Dig. See his column next week for the conclusion of The Big Dig.
